Thanks to St. Martin's Press and SheSpeaks.com I was able to read an advance reader's edition of The Girl He Used To Know by Tracey Garvis Graves. This eye opening novel is everything but an ordinary love story. Annika Rose is a very smart and caring girl, but she hasn't had an easy life. Early on in her childhood she already had to experience being bullied in school for being different and never quite fitting in with "normal" people. Her mother decided to keep her safe at home and homeschool her, but when it was time for Annika to grow up and leave home to go to college, she felt lost in the outside world. Luckily her roommate Janice took her under her wing and helped her become more independent and meet new people. Annika preferred quiet evenings and loved being alone where she felt most comfortable, but once introduced to the college chess club she met Jonathan, who loved chess as much as she did. They fell in love, and he was her perfect counterpart. He didn't mind but fell in love with her quirkiness, her way to say things how they were, and even though it was difficult at times for Jonathan to understand what's going on in Annika's mind, he showed so much empathy and love towards her. For once, Annika felt understood and cherished, they even planned their future together. But once the opportunity arose for Jonathan to leave and follow his dreams to pursue his career after college ended, Annika decided to not follow him. So they split up and Annika had to start figuring out life on her own, as Janice left after college as well. It wasn't easy for Annika, but she had a point to prove to herself: that she can handle whatever life throws at her on her own. Fast forward ten years later, out of the blue Annika and Jonathan, who's freshly divorced, meet again by coincidence. Jonathan realizes the connection they both had never really faded away. He is enchanted all over by her character, always unapologetically being herself and mind strong pursuing her own career now. He feels protective of her, noticing that others sadly still take advantage of her personality and treat her as if she was less.
It is interesting how this book jumps back and forth between two timelines, telling its reader about the time they first dated in their twenties, and now after they have just met again in their thirties.
The characters are likeable, relatable and funny. This book is such an endearing and quick read, I enjoyed it! It is a book that will open your mind and your heart at the same time. And the unpredictable ending will have you at the edge at your seat, rooting for Annika as she faces the biggest challenge of her life.
Tracey Garvis Graves dedicated this book "For anyone who's ever felt like they didn't belong" and it truly hit home for me. You can't judge a book by its cover, the same goes for people.
#ReadTheGirl #shespeaks The Girl He Used To Know by Tracey Garvis Graves, ISBN 978-1-250-21121-7, goes on sale April 2nd, 2019! Make sure to pick up your copy or preorder now! http://bit.ly/thegirlheusedtoknow
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